“Don't Worry, Be Happy”—sung by Bobby McFerrin

SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) was first described by Dr. Rosenthal at the National Institute of Mental Health, and he named the disorder.

The renowned Cleveland Clinic explains SAD is depression that occurs annually, usually starting in fall/winter and ending in spring/early summer. It’s more than "the winter blues," and a rare form called "summer depression" begins in late spring/early summer and ends in the fall.

Weight loss
People with SAD have many common depression signs: sadness, anxiety, irritability, loss of interest in usual activities, withdrawal from social activities, and inability to concentrate.

Symptoms of winter SAD include: fatigue, increased need for sleep, decreased levels of energy, weight gain/greater appetite, difficulty concentrating, increased desire to be alone. Symptoms of summer SAD include: weight loss, trouble sleeping, and decreased appetite.

It’s estimated that 4-6 percent of Americans suffer SAD, while 10-20 percent may suffer from mild winter blues. Of those affected, 75 percent are women, most of them in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. SAD can occur in children and adolescents; older adults are less likely to get SAD.

Extreme changes
SAD is more common in people who live farther north/south of the equator, with more extreme seasonal changes. It’s estimated 1 percent of Florida residents versus nearly 10 percent of Alaska residents get SAD. The cause isn’t known, but latitude strongly suggests it’s due to availability of sunlight.

One theory is: with decreased exposure to sunlight, the biological clock that regulates mood, sleep, and hormones is delayed, running more slowly in winter. Exposure to light may reset the biological clock.

If you have symptoms of depression, see your doctor for a thorough assessment. Research shows light therapy is effective for SAD; sometimes, antidepressants are used alone or with light therapy. Spending time outdoors during the day can be helpful, plus maximizing sunlight you're exposed to at home and at work.

To-do list
Light therapy is administered with white fluorescent light tubes covered with a plastic screen to block ultraviolet rays. The intensity of light emitted (Lux) should be at least 10,000 Lux. The patient doesn’t look into the light, but reads or eats sitting in front of the device at a distance of 2-3 feet. Minor side effects include: eye strain, headache, irritability, fatigue, and insomnia.

If you’ve been diagnosed with SAD, there are things you can do to prevent it from returning:

• Try to spend time outside daily, even if it’s very cloudy.
• Use a light box at onset of low sunlight (fall), even before you feel SAD.
• Try exercising for 30 minutes daily, three times a week.
• Seek professional counseling, if needed, during the winter months.
• Retain your social circle and regular activities.

If symptoms become severe and you or someone you know are having thoughts of suicide, call your doctor pronto, or go to the nearest emergency room.

In his wheelchair in Jacksonville, FL, Herb Drill heads Able Me & Associates. His e-mail address is herbdrill@ableme.com He has Muscular Dystrophy